You are here

Preparation Tips

Before applying for financial aid as a student at the College of Medicine – Tucson, we suggest that you review your credit score and prepare a draft budget.

Complete a Credit Check

There are three major credit bureaus which track consumer credit scores (Experian, Equifax and TransUnion). The Federal Government requires each credit bureau to give consumers a free credit report annually.

Review your ‘Total Discretionary Income’ calculated at the bottom of the page.

If it is a positive amount: Reduce the amount you reported in the income section for ‘Financial Aid’ by the ‘Total Discretionary Income’ providing a new $0 value. When you accept your financial aid in July, you will only accept up to the amount reported in the ‘Financial Aid’ section on the form. This implies that you do not need all of the aid that has been offered to you.

If it is a negative amount: Your financial aid does not cover the amount you will need and you should schedule an appointment with the Financial Aid Office to review further. Please bring this budget sheet to your appointment.